3 steps to finding the right running shoe

Running is a high impact sport, so it's imperative that you find the perfect trainer for your individual needs to give you the correct support and prevent injury.

1. identify and select the arch of your foot

You can identify your foot type by doing a "footprint test" by placing your foot in water or paint and stepping on a piece of paper.

Select your foot type below to proceed to the next step.

High arch: Only the heel and the front of the foot make contact with the ground. The arch absorbs impact well and doesn’t require any further support from footwear.

Neutral arch: The front of the foot, the heel and the outer border of the foot make equal contact with the ground. A moderately high arch which tends to process impact on the foot through normal pronation.

Low arch: Most of the sole of the foot is in contact with the ground. Low arches tend to cause the foot to roll inwards and over-pronate.

Flat arch: The entire sole of the foot is in contact with the ground. Flat-footed runners tend to have over-pronating feet, which often results in poor running form and a lack of natural shock absorption.

2. identify and select your leg axis

The leg axis is the line which extends from the hip down to your foot along which the knee joint flexes. Research has shown that the movement patterns of the knee affect the biomechanics of the foot. So it is vital that you analyse your leg axis before deciding on a trainer.

Select your leg axis below to proceed to the next step.

Bow legged: The legs curve outwards like a bow between the ankle and the thigh.

Straight legged: The knees and ankles are in line when you are in a standing position.

Knock knee: The knees angle in and touch one another when the legs are straightened.

3. your recommended shoe type

You have not completed all steps.

Please ensure you have made a selection for step 1 and step 2 before being able to view your recommended trainers.

Sweaty Betty is a silver lining story. Faced with redundancy, Sweaty Betty’s founder Tamara wanted to turn her luck around and embrace the opportunity to make a change for the better. So she thought about the things she loved – fitness, adventure, fashion
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In 1998, Tamara took the first step and opened the original Sweaty Betty boutique in Notting Hill. Within the stunning listed venue sat the most beautiful and technical in specially–designed workout wear for run, ski, yoga, swim and every discipline for the British fitness enthusiast.

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